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Bexley's Ban On Cell Phone Use By Drivers Takes Effect This Week

Starting this Friday, Bexley will become the first city in central Ohio to ban the use of cell phones while driving. Jim Letizia reports.  

Cleveland has a similar law on the books. The new law approved by City Council in September allows Bexley officers to issue citations to any drivers they see holding a cell phone. It's a secondary offense, meaning officers may not stop a motorist unless they see that person committing another violation. Ohio law prohibits texting while driving, but does not forbid cell phone activity. Bexley police chief Larry Rinehart says this law is tough but virtually unenforceable. He says it’s difficult for prosecutors to prove someone was actually using the phone. City workers have already erected road signs notifying drivers the law will soon take effect. Bexley officials hope the measure sparks action at the state level. State figures show more than 92 hundred motorists have been involved in distracted driving accidents so far this year. 

 
 
 
 
 
 

Jim has been with WCBE since 1996. Before that he worked as a reporter at another Columbus radio station, and for three newspapers in Southwest Florida.
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